The Carolina Hurricanes’ annual Summerfest had a feel-good start to it Saturday, with something of a surprise. Defenseman and first-round draft pick Noah Hanifin appeared in person to sign his entry-level contract.

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Carolina Hurricanes owner Peter Karmanos explains why high priced, under-performing Alexander Semin had to go during a press conference held at PNC Arena Wednesday. Earlier in the week, the Canes bought out his $7 million/year contract, giving him a total of $14 million to not play. Staff video by Chris Seward

The Carolina Hurricanes announced Tuesday they have signed forward Zach Boychuk on a one-year, two-way contract that will pay $600,000 in the NHL or $200,000 on the American Hockey League level in 2015-16, with a guarantee of $250,000.

Hurricanes defensive prospect Brett Pesce isn’t skating with the team’s other prospects this week because of a minor knee injury, but he has a chance to make the NHL roster out of training camp – and could be part of the blue-line foundation in the future.

There will be no public war of words between Jim Rutherford and Hurricanes owner Peter Karmanos Jr. Rutherford, now general manager for the Pittsburgh Penguins, is withholding comment on pointed remarks made Wednesday by Karmanos.

Carolina Hurricanes owner Peter Karmanos explains why high priced, under-performing Alexander Semin had to go during a press conference held at PNC Arena Wednesday. Earlier in the week, the Canes bought out his $7 million/year contract, giving him a total of $14 million to not play. Staff video by Chris Seward